Hen and new chicks

[crystal1957]

Does anyone know when I can separate 1 week old chicks from the mother hen? They are outside and doing beautifully. And following her around like crazy. I am thinking about selling the chicks when they get a bit older. Will the mother hen lose interest after they learn everything or will she mother them for quite a while? My goal is to go full circle with her, so she can detach from her chicks and begin laying again. Any ideas? She is part rhode island red and part americana.

 

[Schultz]

Well, in my experience, the mother will detach herself from the chicks but only when she sees fit. We had a broody that kept the chicks until they were over 2 months old and we had another that kicked them out after a couple of weeks. You will figure out what is best your you and your flock.

 

[crystal1957]

Thanks for the info. And when will she start laying her own eggs after the chicks are on their own? Or will she be broody all summer?

 

[Schultz]

My girls stared laying once they left the nest.

 

[crystal1957]

Thanks!!